Tips, News and Information for Traveling the World

Monthly Archives: September 2016

When you want to really get away from it all, there’s no better place than planning a trip to Fiji. A group more than 300 islands in the South Pacific Ocean, Fiji’s clear waters and soft white sands beckon you to luxuriate under its warm tropical sun any time of year. Are you ready to lay on a hammock at your beachfront villa and enjoy the peaceful sea winds? If you are nodding “yes”, then here five things we recommend that you do once you are in Fiji’s island paradise.

1. Explore the smaller islands.

Many of Fiji’s islands have all-inclusive resorts that make your stay convenient and restful. You can usually reach these islands by ferry or seaplane, and using each type of transportation keeps your trip exciting. When you travel to Fiji, you should get the full experience and try all methods of inter-island travel.

2. Get a luxurious spa treatment.

When you are in paradise, you definitely need to treat yourself. Why not get a beachfront massage as you listen to the soothing sounds of the ocean waves, or pamper your skin with a Fijian mud bath? After all, when you are on vacation, you need to take time for yourself and experience some luxury.

3. Go scuba diving and snorkeling.

You have to see Fiji’s stunning coral reefs and amazing aquatic life for yourself. With waters so clear, you can see everything in vibrant color! Adventures range from shallow-water snorkeling to deep-sea scuba diving with sharks or shipwrecks!

4. Experience Fijian culture.

There are ways to experience Fiji’s friendly island culture first-hand. You can go on an organized tour to local villages where the residents are ready to share their culture with you. Shop around and support local artisans by purchasing authentic handmade souvenirs. Or, experience a kava ceremony where you drink a relaxing ceremonial tea from the locals as a way to say “welcome!”

5. Taste the food!

Fijian food is one of a kind and absolutely delicious. Their traditional food is full of spice and curries and based on local freshness. Give your palate and adventure with some of Fiji’s famous dishes like kokoda, which is chopped raw mahi-mahi fish that is cured with citrus juices and coconut cream. Eat in the island’s communal style to get a full experience of Fiji’s close-knit, family-centered culture.

Thailand is home to one of the world’s oldest and most fascinating cultures. If you are planning a trip to Thailand, it is a good idea to understand certain things about the Thai culture and people before you arrive.

The Buddha is Sacred

The image of the Buddha is held sacred in Thai culture. Remember this and accordingly when here. Wear appropriate clothing that is more formal such as long pants and shirts with sleeves when taking Thailand tours.

Take Off Your Shoes

If you invited into a Thai’s house, take off your shoes before entering. Keeping them on is considered rude.

Embrace The Thai Language

Thai is a beautiful, elegant language. Study a few basic phrases before coming here.

Bring Out Your Smile

Smiling is a big part of Thai culture. Don’t be afraid to smile wherever you go Thais will welcome your smile and feel at ease instantly.

Get Help

Going to Thailand is often once in a lifetime experience. Make the most of your trip here with help from a tour group. Pacific Holidays Inc. offers everything you need to get there including airfare.

In addition to those things you should do, there are a few you don’t want to do when you take a trip to Thailand.

Do Not Disrespect The Royal Family

The royal family is very respected in Thailand. Remember this. Failure to do so may even get you jailed.

Finish That Rice

Rice is an integral part of any Thai meal. Thai cooking is renowned worldwide. Expect to be served rice at every meal. Eat every grain in order to show respect.

Limit Displays of Public Affection

Despite what you may have read, Thailand is largely a conservative country. Public displays of affection are highly frowned upon. Avoid the temptation to hold hands or kiss in person.

Do Not Be Rude to Monks

Monks are present in many places and considered to be some of the most respected members of Thai society. When meeting a monk, be as respectful as possible.

Do Not Touch a Thai Person’s Head

In Thailand, the head of the body is considered the highest part of the body. If you bump into someone’s head by accident, apologize at once.

If you’re headed to Asia for your next vacation, definitely think outside the box. Rather than planning to go a typical place, make your journey anything but ordinary by traveling to an often-overlooked but highly satisfying location: Korea. The country of South Korea is just to the south of North Korea, northwest of Japan, and east of China.

Local History

With a history that traces well back into the BC era, South Korea has changed much since its founding. In 1948 North and South Korea became independent of each other, with the southern part becoming capitalist. This is the part of Korea where tourism has taken place up until now. The northern and southern parts and still technically at war, although no literal war is being fought. In 1988, the southern Korean capital city of Seoul hosted the summer Olympics. The first female president of South Korea was elected in 2012.

Cultural Highlights

The South Korean culture is intricately tied in with the country’s history and geography. Because of the country’s location, it is set apart from other countries so maintains its own distinctive culture. People in South Korea are known for being ultra-modern as well as having an excellent sense of style and focus on the arts. The architecture is renowed, as is the superior and varied cuisine.

Top Destinations

You won’t run out of places to go and things to do in South Korea. No trip would be complete without a tour of Seoul, which as the capital is more than 600 years old and a great blend of historic and contemporary. Busan, another large city, offers beautiful beach areas such as Haeundae beach. Both of these cities are also home to many historic sites, shopping, and restaurants. Other places to see in South Korea include Jirisan National Park, which is the biggest and oldest national park in South Korea, Seoraksan National Park, the island Jeju, the massive shopping mall Myeong-dong, and the historic Kwangchang Market.

Travel to Korea is straightforward, thanks to the plentiful airport and flight options. There are also a variety of wonderful hotels and other accommodations. To get started with making your travel plans, contact us to find out more about our Korea tours and travel package. It’s the best start for getting there because it includes everything you need for your Korean adventures, even airfare.